If you are a fan of British crime dramas and are currently facing a void while waiting for the next season of Shetland, there is a special “fix” awaiting you on ITVX. Long before he became an icon as DI Jimmy Perez, the talented Douglas Henshall starred in Collision—a high-stakes, five-part thriller that has earned critical acclaim for its tension and unpredictable twists.

Crafted by a Master of Mystery

Penned by Anthony Horowitz—the renowned screenwriter behind mega-hits like Magpie Murders and Midsomer Murders—the 2009 series Collision is far more than a standard procedural. The story unfolds following a catastrophic six-car pile-up on the motorway. This horrific accident does not merely leave a trail of casualties; it unlocks a “Pandora’s box” of dark secrets, ranging from embezzlement and systemic cover-ups to murders hidden beneath the guise of a tragic accident.

The series describes the essence of this incident as follows: “On the face of it, a major road accident is nothing more than a moment of total chaos bringing together a group of people who have never met before but who now share a defining moment that will change all their lives.”

When Detective John Tolin (played by Douglas Henshall) steps into the investigation, he is unaware that he is embarking on a dangerous journey. The show’s synopsis reveals: “Beyond the crumpled cars and beleaguered emergency services are the invisible dramas and when DI John Tolin begins his investigation he finds himself drawn into many different and dangerous worlds including government cover-ups, smuggling, torn relationships and murder.”

An Interweaving of Shattered Lives

One of the highlights of Collision is its multi-strand narrative style. The accident acts as a catalyst, pulling together strangers and forcing them to confront irreversible consequences. DI Tolin must manage not only the pressure of the case but also his complex emotions while working alongside Inspector Ann Stallwood (Kate Ashfield)—a former lover. Their strained relationship reaches a boiling point against the backdrop of an investigation that is rapidly spiraling out of control.

Mixed Reviews and Audience Reception

Since its release on ITVX, Collision has sparked lively debate among fans. Many loyal viewers on IMDb have praised the tight script and plotlines that are “masterfully interwoven.” They have hailed it as a “thoroughly gripping” and “fantastic story.” However, some viewers have felt that the series left too many plot threads unresolved, creating a sense of frustration for those seeking a tidy conclusion.

Critics have offered a variety of perspectives. The Guardian noted that the show was “totally gripping,” while Variety was more reserved, suggesting that while the premise was interesting, the individual character arcs were ultimately not compelling enough to fully draw the audience in.

A Distinguished Cast

The appeal of Collision also lies in its impressive ensemble of seasoned British actors. Alongside Douglas Henshall and Kate Ashfield, the series features Christopher Fulford, Jo Woodcock, Dean Lennox Kelly, Zoe Telford, Craig Kelly, Phil Davis, Jan Francis, Lucy Griffiths, and the notable Paul McGann. The synergy among these professional actors brings a gritty and authentic depth to this dark, conspiracy-laden tale.

If you are looking for the perfect show to binge-watch this weekend, Collision is a must-see for anyone wanting to witness Douglas Henshall’s versatile performance within a script packed with intrigue and hidden shadows.